Gastric bypass surgery for teens?

In order to lose weight, a person must take in fewer calories and/or use up more calories in activity. Traditionally, that means eating a healthy, low-fat diet and getting more regular exercise. Sometimes, diet and exercise aren’t enough. Obese patients who have failed traditional weight loss programs may be candidates for surgery.

Traditionally, gastric bypass has been reserved for adults. However, more physicians are offering the treatment to obese teens. The National Institutes of Health says gastric bypass should only be offered for obese adolescents and teens who have tried to lose weight for at least six months and have not had success with traditional methods. Candidates need to have reached skeletal maturity (i.e., full adult height) and have weight-related health problems.

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